Looking for the best honeymoon destinations in the USA? After months of wedding planning, adding a far-flung, difficult-to-reach trip can seem unappealing to many. And with America already boasting some of the most romantic places in the world, staying close to home could be the ideal romantic getaway.
For those planning their post-nuptial trip, here are Vogue’s favorite honeymoon destinations in the USA.
Big Sur, California
The coastline of Big Sur, California, is known as one of the most dramatic in the world: jagged cliffs plummet into the roar of the Pacific as the horizon expands endlessly beyond. There’s plenty to do (hiking, camping) and plenty of sites to see (Point Lobos, Bixby Bridge) yet part of Big Sur’s allure is cozying up amid the redwoods and the mist. stay at the rustic Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn—which has no internet, televisions, or cell service, but excellent food—or the nearby Post Ranch Inn, which is known as one of the best hotels in America. (The Michelin Guide gave it three keys, its highest ranking.) Meanwhile, Alila Ventana Big Sur offers glamping across 20 acres. And for those seeking real adventure? Take a road trip down Highway 1 from San Francisco all the way to Venice Beach.
Santa Barbara, California
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With its balmy climate, sweeping coastlines, and world-class wine, it’s no wonder that Santa Barbara and its surrounding areas of Montecito, Ojai, and Santa Ynez Valley are nicknamed the Mediterranean Riviera. It’s been a glamorous domestic honeymoon destination for Americans since the 1950s: John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy, for example, spent their idyllic post-wedding days at San Ysidro Ranch. (Here’s our full hotel guide.) Also worth a mention? El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, which is nestled within a ritzy enclave of Santa Barbara.
Napa and Sonoma, California
Napa and Sonoma are world-famous for good reason: with over 400 wineries in Napa alone, the regions produce some of the best cabernet sauvignons and pinot noirs in the world. And it’s not just wine that’s worth the global recognition: the area is dotted with Michelin-starred restaurants including, Sonoma’s SingleThread Farm Inn. (Looking for a place to stay? Vogue loves the recently opened Stanly Ranch in Napa.)
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride, Colorado is a Rocky Mountain town that’s romantic in its remoteness—it’s a six-hour drive from the city of Denver, and its teeny-tiny commercial airport boasts the highest elevation in the United States. Yet couples willing to make the trek will be rewarded with its raw, rugged beauty. Located in a box canyon, the entire historic Victorian mining town is surrounded by 13 to 14,000 feet snow-capped mountains. (The beauty of Telluride is so pristine, in fact, that it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.) It’s also an adventurer’s paradise: hike, mountain bike, or kayak down alpine creeks. There are also a number of five-star hotels in the region, including the Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection and Dunton Hot Springs. (The latter is where Emily in Paris actor Lily Collins got married.)
Maui and Lanai, Hawaii
While technically within the United States, the islands of Hawaii feel worlds away, because well, they are: a 10-hour flight from New York and a six-hour flight from Los Angeles, traveling to the Pacific isles is arguably the farthest journey any American can make while remaining in the country. But with its tropical beaches, rainforests, and national parks, it’s more than worth the journey—and that’s without even mentioning the Hawaiian culture and food. (You’ve never had a poke bowl until you’ve had one in Hawaii.)
Parts of Maui—the most popular island for honeymooners due to its beautiful, lush landscape and sunsets—are still recovering from a devastating wildfire a year ago. But the area is open for respectful tourists and honeymooners. (We recommend the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, where the White Lotus was filmed.) Across the channel is the island of Lanai, owned by billionaire Larry Ellison and known for its romantic seclusion. Here, you’ll find two Four Season resorts: Sensei Lanai is tucked away in the tropical wilderness and focuses on wellness, whereas the Four Seasons Resort Lanai boasts a picture postcard palm-tree-lined beach.
